2018 Professional Development Course Catalog - Update 11/28/2017

CPC Program Courses

Family Law Matters This two-day course focuses on the various processes and procedures in handling the court’s domestic cases. About two-thirds of court litigation deals with family and domestic relation disputes. A court professional needs to be fully aware of the context of this heavy caseload docket in the court system. Topics: divorce, separation, and annulment; child custody and visitation; peace orders, alimony, child support, disposition of property, and legal rights of children; and domestic violence disputes. Cashiering and Collecting Court Fines, Fees, and Costs In this one-day course, CPC participants will examine the basics of court finance that will cover cash handling and cashiering procedures in collecting court fines, fees, and costs. Some focus will also be given to the legislative audit of this function at the courthouse and the importance of sound fiscal oversight and protection of the public’s purse. An overview of how court revenues impact Judiciary budget revenues will be incorporated. Completion of this course will provide CPC participants financial insight, not only in cashiering operations, but also in how this function impacts the judicial system. Serving Court Customers This one-day course provides practical knowledge for judiciary employees to deliver excellent customer service in conducting the business of the court in different situations and enable participants to meet the Judiciary’s goal of fair and equitable access to justice and confidence in the court system. Participants will learn the components of superior customer service, effective customer service skills at the counter and on the telephone, what court information can be provided, and what information is considered legal advice. Participants will develop techniques for dealing with complaints and emotional customers at the counter, and will learn how to maintain a positive work attitude.

Fundamentals in Effective Court Communication

This is a two-day, foundation course relating to all other CPC courses. Positive communication

enhances productivity, smooth and professional work relationships, trust on the job, customer service, high office morale, and teamwork. Good communication skills enhance your professionalism. Class participants will learn key legal language and terminology critical to the business of the courts. Fundamental techniques that facilitate effective communication, both written and oral, will be explored. Computer Applications in the Courts This two-day course prepares court employees for the age of the electronic court. It recognizes that court professionals must be knowledgeable in computer operations in the court work environment. Topics in this course include orienting participants to the next wave of computer tools and technology coming into the courts. This includes e-filing of civil cases, the computer connections between different court agencies, the electronic courtroom, and the role of the internet in providing efficient and effective court services. The course will expose participants to computer hardware and software terminology. Attendees will become familiar with the existing mix of computers now installed in courthouses as well as their practical application to aid in specific court work. The Professional Advantage This course encourages court personnel to examine how their behavior, speech, attitude, and appearance can influence how they are perceived by the public and their co-workers. In today’s business world, the “rules” often change quickly and there are few written guidelines. Participants will discover techniques to help them take their professionalism to a higher level. “New business etiquette” advice and how to project a positive, polished image will also be covered. The second day of the course will consist of journal sharing and local tours.

Judicial College of Maryland

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